Geminis and Genies folded into single industry event

The consolidated industry event, slated for March 2013, will now include English-language TV and digital awards with the English and French-language film competition.

Say farewell to the Geminis and Genies, and hello to a new gala event to acknowledge achievements by Canada’s film, television and digital media communities.

The Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television announced Tuesday morning that it will combine its separate celebrations of the domestic screen industries into one industry event, in a move organizers say will boost recognition of Canada’s star system.

“Following extensive industry consultation and outreach, the Academy board announces the consolidation of the Genie and Gemini awards into one major powerhouse show for the Canadian public,” said Academy chairman Martin Katz in a statement.

English and French-language films will continue to compete in the new awards show in March 2013, which will also include English-language television and digital awards.

Shows eligible for the 2012 Geminis will be part of the future awards program.

“The Academy’s new awards will be a true showcase of our country’s finest talent in all screen industries in this two-hour, star-studded red-carpet gala,” added Academy CEO Helga Stephenson.

“This merger offers Quebec artists, filmmakers and producers a unique window to promote their creative work and expertise on the national scene,” said Charles Ohayon, who is chairman of the Quebec branch of the Academy, in a statement.

Categories in the consolidated awards will remain unchanged, with 24 categories for film and 94 categories for television and digital projects.

Meanwhile, the annual Gémeaux Awards for French-language television and digital media will air on Radio-Canada, as previously announced, on Sept. 16 this year.